Platinum-Series-Hydrocarbon-and-Carbon-Dioxide-Sensor

Supported Applications

The Dynament Platinum Series Hydrocarbon and Carbon Dioxide Sensor is designed for the detection and measurement of hydrocarbons (methane, propane) and carbon dioxide. The series integrates optics, electronics, and firmware to provide linearized, temperature-compensated output in a single package. Documented applications include biogas measurement configurations.

Operating Conditions & Performance

The sensor operates within an ambient temperature range of -20°C to +50°C (-4°F to +122°F) and supports humidity levels from 0 to 95% RH non-condensing. Accuracy is specified as ±2% at 20°C, 1 bar atmospheric pressure with calibration gas applied; accuracy limits are maintained at pressures within ±5% of the calibration pressure.

Performance characteristics include a response time (T90) of <30s and a warm-up time to final zero ±2% full-scale of approximately 1 minute. The series offers three power variants: Low Power consuming 15mA / 45mW, Regular Power at 80mA / 240mW (at 3VDC), and an additional variant drawing 140mA.

Repeatability specifications vary by channel:

• Hydrocarbon Channel: Zero repeatability of ±0.05% vol. CH4 / ±0.03% vol. C3H8; Span repeatability ranges from ±0.1% vol. (for 0-5% vol. CH4) to ±2% vol. (for 0-100% vol. CH4).
• Carbon Dioxide Channel: Zero and span repeatability of ±2% of full scale.

The series maintains a Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) greater than 5 years and carries a 5-year warranty.

Voltage & Signal Specifications

• Operating Voltage: 3.0 - 5.0VDC
• Digital Output Format: 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, 2.8V logic level
• Baud Rates: Standard rates include 38,400 / 19,200 / 9,600 / 4,800

Configuration Options

The Platinum Series supports dual-gas sensing with high-resolution capabilities for methane and carbon dioxide in a compact form factor. The sensor measures hydrocarbons (methane, propane) and carbon dioxide across multiple ranges:

• Methane Ranges: 0 to 100% volume; 0.5 to 100% volume
• Carbon Dioxide Ranges: 0 to 5% volume; 5 to 100% volume; 0 to 100% volume
• Propane Range: 0 to 0.2% volume

The series is configurable using a USB-powered Premier Configuration Unit, which allows for internal Flash memory firmware updates and specific configuration for biogas measurement.

Mechanical & Electrical Interface

• Dimensions: Diameter 20mm; Height 16.60mm (Weight: 15 grams)
• Connector Type: 4-pin connector with pin assignments: 1. TXD, 2. GND, 3. VCC, 4. RXD

Key Product Differences

The series is distinguished by its dual-channel infrared sensing technology and specific certification profiles for industrial and mining environments.

• Certifications: SIL 1 certified; Industrial Ex d IIC Certified; Mining M 1 Certified. Additional certifications include IECEx SIR 05.005, SIRA 04ATEX185, UL, CSA, and FTZU Ex.
• Power Variants: Available in three power consumption levels: 140mA, 80mA (Regular Power), and 15mA (Low Power).

Note regarding calibration: Do not calibrate with a mixture of CH4 and CO2. Calibrations must be performed with target gas/balance nitrogen to achieve the best results; sensors calibrated otherwise cannot meet datasheet specifications.